A benefit concert is planned in March to help raise funds to stock the shelves at Bridges to Hope’s food bank.

Bridges to Hope is partnering with MusicNL on the benefit featuring artists like Allan Doyle, Rachel Cousens, Nick Earle and Kelly McMichael.

Manager Jody Williams says demand has skyrocketed with the rising cost of living and he’s met with Minister Responsible John Abbott to discuss food insecurity which is becoming a health crisis.

He says food is a basic right and he’s expressed his concern, seeking support from government.

In the meantime, Williams says they decided to go the benefit route because of increased demand, and they went into a deficit because they refused to turn people away.

He says they’re expecting a 30 per cent increase in demand this year, on top of the 40 per cent increase they saw last year. Based on online donations, and projected demand, they’re facing a $70,000 dollar deficit in the year ahead, which is why they decided to take a difference approach with a benefit concert.

The benefit is planned for March 16 at Gower Street United Church.